I think Hammond and May are actually real life friends of Clarkson. And that generation tends to not abandon a friend because of social pressure. Personally, I would have a beer with May and Hammond anytime and anywhere. But Clarkson would be a pass for me.
But who knows, they are all actors and are pros at being what they are not.
You do realize that human touch can differentiate between .01mm? It’s why braille works so easily.